Chinese Car Brands Increase

LOCAL ARRIVALS: CHANGAN, DEEPAL APPROVED FOR SA

- Charl Bosch

The number of Chinese car brands on offer locally will go up to a staggering 15 when the Changan and Deepal brands are introduced later this year.

A two-pronged market approach by Saudi Arabian importer Jameel Motors will see Changan focus largely on combustion engine products, and Deepal on mostly electric vehicles. Both brands plan to bring in a bakkie, a segment the Chinese manufacturers are increasing their presence in.

Changan Automobile is one of China's four largest automotive groups with a presence in 70 countries. It will make its local debut alongside Deepal in joining 13 other local Chinese brands. These are BYD, Chery, Dayun, Dongfeng, Foton, Great Wall Motors (GWM), Haval, JAC, Jaecoo, Jetour, GAC Motor, LDV, MG and Omoda.

"By leveraging Jameel Motors' extensive experience and Changan Automobile's renowned focus on safety, quality, and technology, I believe we can effectively meet the diverse automotive demands of South African drivers and deliver a positive market experience," said Jameel Motors South Africa country manager, Marinus Venter.

Arriving first, the initial range of Changan vehicles, a brand better known as Chana that marketed the Star bakkie and Rainbow panel van, will consist of three different products in the form of an SUV, bakkie and compact sedan.

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